Folk songwriter William Elliott Whitmore graced the cover of ALARM 35 back in 2009, right after he had made the jump to Anti- (read story here). At the time, he was promoting his new album, Animals in the Dark, which saw his blues-infused creations bolstered by additions of pedal steel, organs, strings, and drums. Now, he’s set to release a new full-length, Field Songs, which speaks to a uniquely American experience. Never one to hide his political beliefs, Whitmore was kind enough to share with us 10 of his favorite anti-war songs.

10 Anti-War Songs by William Elliott Whitmore

1. Operation Ivy: “Unity”

A bit of protest from the Bay Area’s premier ska outfit.

2. The Coup: “Head (Of State)”

Almost every song written by Boots Riley could be taken as an anti-war song, but this one gets specific.

3. Portugal. The Man: “People Say”

A beautiful tune, one of my favorites of theirs.

4. Country Joe McDonald: “I Feel Like I’m Fixing to Die Rag”

This is one of the ultimate protest tunes, and it’s just tongue-in-cheek enough.

5. Tom Waits: “The Day after Tomorrow”

Written from the perspective of a young soldier who just wants to get home to his family. Very moving.

6. Crosby Stills Nash and Young: “Ohio”

Unforgettable melody used to describe a horrific event. Shows the callousness of law enforcers.

7. The Shadow Government: “Big Bazooka”

Everybody wants a big bazooka.

8. Bob Dylan: “Masters Of War”

A stirring minor-chord look at the ones that pull the strings and their lack of compassion for the marionettes.

9. Gil Scott Heron: “The Revolution will not be Televised”

The first conscious rapper, Mr. Heron was emulated by many but equaled by none.